Overview
- Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen called a Ketel Marte trade "unlikely" even as the Tigers, Red Sox, Rays, Blue Jays and Phillies were reported to have checked in.
- Former GM Jim Bowden proposed a hypothetical Yankees package for Marte, highlighting the blockbuster scale of ideas being floated rather than an active negotiation.
- Marte’s trade value is amplified by recent All-Star production and a six-year, $105 million contract that runs through 2030.
- Kyle Tucker is viewed as the top free agent and is expected to seek a contract in the $400 million range, with teams also weighing Cody Bellinger as an alternative.
- Market notes: the Giants are prioritizing pitching while avoiding long-term megadeals, multiple clubs are in on free-agent RHP Michael King, and the Marlins are telling teams Eury Pérez is not available.